The worldwide transmission of COVID-19 has likely turned your typical calendar upside down.

When things feel uncertain you can take comfort in knowing your house is your safe space. You’re probably spending more time there today. That’s why your indoor air quality is now more crucial than ever.

Did you realize we can install indoor air quality products in your house that offer hospital-grade filtration? These options can clear bacteria from your air, as well as allergens, odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Modern houses are tightly sealed, which is great for energy efficiency. But it also means your inside air can be worse than the air outside. In actuality, the EPA says it can be two to five times worse than outdoors. This can be problematic since we spend about 90% of our days in a building.

There are many elements that can contribute to poor indoor air quality, such as cleaning products and air fresheners. These could result in headaches and worsen allergies and asthma.

There are several actions you can take to better your air quality. Some include better air filters, an air purification system or an ultraviolet (UV) germicidal light.

Not certain which option is right for your home? Our knowledgeable pros can conduct an indoor air quality audit. Based off of the results, we can then recommend the most fitting option for your home’s distinct needs.

Continue reading to find out more about the air quality equipment we provide.

Air Filtration

When looking at air filters, it’s important to look at the MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. This measures how efficiently it filters pollutants.

One of the most average and most economical filters, flat fiberglass filters, are graded between 1 and 4 on the MERV scale. Pleated filters are slightly better, ranking between 8 and 12.

We recommend upgrading to at least MERV 13, like the HC13 Media Air Cleaner, for the most ideal results. This filter delivers clearer air while limiting energy use.

High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are considered the benchmark in air filtration, because they’re usually used in hospitals. They’re effective at capturing 99.97–99.99% of indoor pollutants, like pollen, pet dander and smoke.

Ahead of buying a better filter, give us a call at 703-595-4157. Our professionals can help you find the best option for your system.

Air Purification

Lennox provides some of the most advanced air purification units you can purchase. PureAir™ S and Healthy Climate™ PureAir Air Purification Systems deliver hospital-grade filtration while taking care of all types of indoor air contaminants.

These powerful units can eliminate:

  • 99.9% of allergens, like pollen, dust and pet dander.
  • 95% of bacteria-sized particles, such as ones that cause strep throat.
  • 50% of VOCs and odors within 24 hours.

UV Germicidal Lights

A UV germicidal light is added inside your heating and cooling unit. Its powerful rays eradicate bacteria and mold within seconds.

If your family suffers from allergies or asthma, this system might deliver relief. Especially if you live in a humid area where bacteria and mold grow quickly.

This light also provides an additional bonus for your heating and cooling equipment. It can help it last longer and heat and cool more efficiently, since it keeps the internal components clean.

Our air quality engineers advise installing one of these lights with an upgraded filter, such as our Carbon Clean 16® Media Air Cleaner, for the greatest outcome. This filter provides industry-leading MERV 16 filtration combined with carbon-coated fibers to catch particles in your residence’s air. It fulfills this without limiting your HVAC unit’s airflow.

Whole-Home Humidifiers

Having balanced humidity in your residence might help keep your loved ones from getting sick when it’s chilly. It can help with sore throats, itchy skin and cracked lips, among other cold weather annoyances.

If you don’t know what your residence’s humidity range is, we’ll figure that out while we do your indoor air quality audit. While the range varies based off of outdoor temperatures, HVAC experts usually advise keeping it between 40–60 percent.

You can achieve this optimum range by installing a whole-home humidifier. This unit typically accompanies your furnace or air handler to provide optimal humidity throughout your house. Some models, like the Healthy Climate® Whole-Home Power Humidifier, use an incorporated fan to spread humidity while your comfort system isn’t on.

Trust the Pros for Your Indoor Air Quality Necessities

At Fire & Ice HVAC, we’re passionate about making your residence more relaxing. That’s why we provide Lennox air quality equipment, which are the most complete solution on the market.

We’re also more than just your heating and cooling company. We’re concerned about the well-being of you and your household. That’s why we’re taking more precautions when we come to your residence.

To find out more about our air quality solution, give us a call at 703-595-4157 or contact us online. Our friendly staff can also handle any worries you may have with a technician visiting your house at this time.

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*Based on in-duct testing that shows Healthy Climate® filters reduce airflow restriction. Greater restriction of airflow creates a greater load on a unit’s fan motor, increasing energy consumption.